This is the debut album from these Luxembourg-based thrashers, and at first, Democadencia seems like another rehash of chunky, down-tuned mid ‘00s groove-metal. Devildriver immediately comes to mind. Vocals also stir up some déjà vu – first with the clipped phrasing and bark of Wayne Static (of Static X), and then, in the more melodic second chorus of the opening title track, a signature Hetfield croon. And then, a funny thing happens – the riffs get busier, the rhythms churn more, the melodies become more pleasing, and there’s even some spot-on soloing. So it seems like there’s not only some Swedish influences mixed in here too – but some real talent as well.

The easily identifiable influences don’t stop there. Dritt’s ragged yowl during the chorus of “Noxious Utopia” screams Phil Anselmo (Pantera), the slightly saccharine riffs in “The Void” conjure up Shadows Fall, and busier, more frantic tracks like “Rejections” and “Fracture” go for the throat like Lamb of God. And I haven’t even gotten to Machine Head, Hatebreed or Slipknot (I heard them all too).

So do I ding this for its unoriginal Best of the ‘00s mainstream/modern thrash mash-up? Or do I give it a pass ‘cause it’s well-played, pumps out some cool riffs and moments and offers a lot of promise for a young band? Well, let’s look at it this way: all of the bands I mentioned have sold a lot of albums and garnered a lot of radio play, tours and the attention of millions of regular fans who probably think that black metal refers to Living Colour. Play this for those same fans, and these guys could get a chunk of those sales. So Abstract Rapture‘s certainly well-positioned. Personally, I’d like to hear these guys turn out something that doesn’t remind me of ten other bands, but you know what they say about flattery. Plus these guys are damn good at it.

[Visit the band's website]

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